If you are a new homebuyer or have never thought to winterize your home this winter season, now is the perfect time. As the seasons change and autumn slowly fades away winterizing your home is such an important step to increase your home’s longevity and create peace of mind.

Winterizing your home has so many benefits beyond the financial impact. As it gets colder outside dirt, snow, and ice can build up over time which can lead to costly repairs. Winterizing your home not only reduces the chances of maintenance issues but also preserves the integrity of your home. It also helps with the longevity of your home appliances, reduces the chance of unwanted pests, reduces damage, and increases the energy efficiency of your home.

Winterizing Your Interior

1. Seal Drafts:
   • Check for drafts around windows and doors. Seal gaps with weatherstripping, caulking, or draft stoppers.
   • Install storm windows or apply plastic film insulation to windows to reduce heat loss.
2. Insulate Attic and Walls:
   • Make sure your attic and walls are properly insulated to prevent heat loss. Add more insulation if needed.
3. Service Heating System:
   • Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your heating system to ensure it’s working efficiently. Replace the air filter if needed.
4. Check Fireplaces and Chimneys:
   • Inspect your fireplace and chimney for any blockages or damage. Clean the chimney if you use it for wood-burning or gas fireplaces.
5. Reverse Ceiling Fans:
   • Set your ceiling fans to rotate in a clockwise direction to circulate warm air down.
6. Wrap Water Pipes:
   • Insulate exposed water pipes with pipe insulation to prevent freezing. This is crucial to avoid burst pipes.
7. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
   • Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them to ensure they’re working properly.

Winterizing Your Exterior

1. Seal Foundation and Crawl Spaces:
   • Check for cracks or openings in your foundation and crawl spaces. Seal them with caulk or foam insulation to keep out cold air and pests.
2. Gutters and Downspouts:
   • Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage. Make sure water can flow freely.
3. Check Your Thermostat:
   • Consider installing a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away from home or at night.
4. Seal Ducts:
   • Inspect your ductwork for leaks and seal them with duct tape or mastic. This helps to distribute warm air efficiently.
5. Winterize Outdoor Equipment:
   • Store or cover outdoor furniture, grills, and garden hoses to protect them from the winter elements.
6. Clean and Insulate Air Conditioning Units:
   • If you have central air conditioning, clean and cover the outdoor unit to protect it from snow and ice.
7. Furnace Filter Replacement:
   • Regularly change or clean your furnace filter throughout the winter to keep your heating system running efficiently.

Planning For An Emergency

Storms are unpredictable and having an emergency plan in place is important. Keeping your family safe this winter can be easy if you plan in advance. Placing a few emergency items in a ready-to-go bag that you can easily place in a hall closet, garage, or attic space is perfect to grab if you find yourself without power or gas this winter.

1. Prepare for Power Outages:
   • Have a backup power source, such as a generator or a supply of emergency candles and flashlights.
2. Stock Up on Winter Supplies:
   • Ensure you have enough winter supplies, such as rock salt or ice melt for de-icing walkways, and a shovel for snow removal
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit:
   • Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies like non-perishable food, bottled water, blankets, and a first-aid kit.
4. Plan for Snow Removal:
   • Ensure you have a plan for snow removal, whether it’s shoveling yourself or hiring a snow removal service.

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